Complete Guide to the August Birthstone

The August Birthstone is the peridot. Peridots come in only one color – olive green, with slight yellow and brown undertones. Pure green peridots are exceptionally rare. In this article, Afshin Shaddaie will teach you everything you need to know about peridot birthstone. He will also give you tips on shopping for the August Birthstone and cleaning them. 

Important Note: While some sources have recently listed spinel and sardonyx as August birthstones, this is inaccurate. Peridot is the only official birthstone for August. Scroll below to understand the controversy!

What is the Birthstone for August?

The official birthstone for August is peridot, a striking gem known for its bright green color and unique glow. Unlike many green gemstones that come in deeper, forest-like hues, peridot has a lighter, almost citrusy tone that sets it apart. It’s one of the few gemstones that comes in just one color—green—though the shade can vary slightly depending on where it’s mined. Peridot has been treasured since ancient times and was once called the “gem of the sun” for its radiant, golden-green sparkle.

People born in August often appreciate the peridot not just for its beauty, but for what it symbolizes. The gem is thought to represent peace, strength, and protection—making it a meaningful choice for jewelry or keepsakes. Whether set in a modern necklace or a vintage-style ring, peridot adds a fresh, uplifting touch that fits the warmth and energy of late summer birthdays.

Popular August Birthstone Jewelry Ideas

Peridot’s vibrant green color makes it a standout choice for all types of jewelry, especially when paired with yellow or white gold.

One of the most popular settings is a classic peridot ring, where the gemstone’s natural glow can really take center stage. Peridot earrings are also a favorite—whether as simple studs or dangling drops—offering a fresh pop of color that’s easy to wear every day. Because of its cheerful tone, peridot jewelry often has a youthful, light feel, but it can also look incredibly elegant in vintage or high-end designs.

Necklaces and pendants featuring peridot are especially meaningful as birthday gifts, and many people choose to personalize them with initials or birthstone clusters. Peridot also looks beautiful when set alongside diamonds or pearls, which highlight the gem’s natural brightness. Whether you’re celebrating an August birthday or simply love its unique green glow, peridot jewelry offers a refreshing and timeless way to mark a special moment.

How Much Does a Peridot Birthstone Cost?

Peridot is one of the more affordable gemstones, which makes it a great option for those looking for beauty without the high price tag.

Most peridot gems range from around $50 to $400 per carat, depending on the color, clarity, and size. The most valuable peridots have a rich, grassy green hue with minimal yellow or brown tones. Gems over five carats are less common and tend to cost more, especially if they’re eye-clean and well-cut.

The setting and design of the jewelry can also affect the overall price. A simple quality peridot pendant in sterling silver might cost under $300, while a fine gold ring with a large, high-quality stone could run well over $4,800. Because of its natural charm and accessible price range, peridot is often chosen for meaningful gifts like birthday jewelry, promise rings, or even unique engagement rings.

Expert Hacks for August Birthstone Shopping

Shopping for peridot jewelry can be exciting, but knowing a few expert tips can make all the difference in finding a piece that’s both beautiful and high quality. Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift, these insider hacks from Benjamin Khordipour G.G. will help you choose a peridot that truly stands out, both in color and craftsmanship:

• Look for Pure Grass-Green Color: The best peridots have a vivid, grassy green hue without too much yellow or brown—this gives the stone its signature glow.
• Buy Peridot in Larger Sizes for Better Impact: Peridot is affordable even in bigger sizes, so don’t be afraid to go for a bold 3–5 carat gem for maximum presence.
• Inspect for Eye-Clean Clarity: Choose stones that are free from visible flaws or inclusions—most quality peridots should appear clean to the naked eye.
• Pair with Yellow or Rose Gold for Warmth: These warmer metals bring out the golden undertones in peridot and give the piece a richer, more luxurious look.
• Choose Bezel or Halo Settings for Extra Protection: Since peridot is softer than other gemstones, a bezel or halo can help shield it from chips and scratches.
• Vintage Peridot Offers Great Value: Antique jewelry from the Edwardian or Art Nouveau eras often includes beautiful peridots and can be surprisingly affordable.
• Match With Your Skin Tone: Peridot flatters warm skin tones in yellow gold but can also look stunning in white gold for those with cooler complexions.

How Many August Birthstones Are There?

There’s been growing debate in the jewelry world about how many birthstones August really has. Some jewelers and publications have started listing spinel and sardonyx alongside peridot as additional August birthstones. While these gems are beautiful and meaningful in their own right, their inclusion as official August stones is a recent trend—and not without controversy. Traditional gem authorities and many vintage jewelry experts still recognize peridot as the one true birthstone for August.

Benjamin Khordipour, a GIA-certified gemologist and leading voice in antique jewelry, weighs in: “There’s nothing wrong with buying spinel or sardonyx—they’re wonderful gems. But personally, I don’t believe they’re true August birthstones. They haven’t been universally accepted the way peridot has.” For shoppers, this means you can absolutely choose the gem that speaks to you, but if you’re looking for historical accuracy and long-standing tradition, peridot remains the clear choice.

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Famous Examples of Peridot Jewelry 

Peridot has been featured in some truly remarkable pieces throughout history—both in ancient treasures and modern designer collections. While it may not be as commonly seen as diamonds or sapphires, peridot’s vivid green glow has earned it a place in several iconic designs.

Here are some specific and notable examples:

• Smithsonian’s 310-Carat Peridot: One of the world’s largest cut peridots, mined from Egypt’s Zabargad Island, is on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
• Cleopatra’s Alleged Peridot Collection: Historians believe many of Cleopatra’s famed “emerald” jewels were actually peridot, also sourced from Zabargad Island, Egypt’s ancient peridot mine.
• Queen Elizabeth II’s Peridot Brooch: A vintage peridot and diamond brooch, believed to be gifted to the Queen, features a vibrant oval peridot surrounded by diamonds in a classic Edwardian setting.
• Tiffany & Co. Art Nouveau Peridot Necklace (circa 1905): This piece showcases a peridot centerpiece surrounded by detailed enamel work and pearls, embodying the delicate artistry of the era.
• Bvlgari’s “Giardini Italiani” High Jewelry Collection: Released in 2016, this collection included dramatic peridot pieces, such as a floral-inspired necklace featuring over 200 carats of vivid green peridot.

Mining Locations of Peridot

Peridot is found in several parts of the world, but some sources are especially prized for their quality and color. The most famous historical source is Zabargad Island in Egypt, where peridot has been mined since ancient times. Today, high-quality stones also come from the Kashmir region, known for producing rich, deep green peridots with excellent clarity.

Other notable mining locations include Myanmar (Burma), China, Vietnam, Norway, and the United States—particularly Arizona, which produces a large portion of the world’s commercial-grade peridot.

How to Clean Peridot Jewelry

Peridot is a beautiful gemstone, but it’s softer than many other gems—so proper care is important to keep it looking its best. To clean peridot jewelry at home, use warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush (like a toothbrush). Gently scrub the stone and setting, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as peridot can be sensitive to high heat and harsh vibrations.

It’s also a good idea to remove peridot jewelry before doing activities that involve rough work or exposure to chemicals—like cleaning, swimming in chlorinated pools, or using beauty products like hairspray and perfume. Store your peridot pieces separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches, ideally in a fabric-lined box or soft pouch. With a little extra care, your peridot jewelry can stay brilliant and beautiful for years to come.

Birthstone Style Quiz

Here’s our latest style quiz to help you learn which type of birthstone ring you should get.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Color is the August Birthstone?

The August Birthstone is an olivine color, officially termed a “moderate yellow-green” color. It’s a lot softer than olive-green and olive-drab. The HEX website color for the August Birthstone is #9ab973.

2. Is Peridot a Rare Gemstone?

Peridot is more common than many other gemstones, which helps keep it affordable—but that doesn’t mean all peridots are easy to find. High-quality stones with rich green color and excellent clarity are far less common and are considered more desirable. So while the gem itself isn’t rare, truly beautiful peridots can still be special.

3. Can You Wear Peridot Every Day?

You can wear peridot daily, but it’s important to take extra care. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is softer than many other popular gems, meaning it can scratch or chip if bumped or stored carelessly. Choosing protective settings and avoiding rough wear can help preserve its beauty.

4. Is Peridot Suitable for Engagement Rings?

Peridot can be used in engagement rings, especially for those who want a unique, colorful stone—but it’s not the most durable option. Because it’s softer than diamonds or sapphires, it’s best suited for rings that won’t face heavy daily wear. Bezel settings or halo designs can add some protection if you love the look.

5. Is Vintage Peridot Jewelry Valuable?

Yes—vintage peridot pieces, especially from the Edwardian and Art Nouveau periods, can hold strong value. These older pieces often feature unique craftsmanship and higher-quality stones, making them appealing to both collectors and everyday buyers. Just be sure to buy from a trusted source to confirm authenticity.

6. How Can I Tell If a Peridot Is Real?

A real peridot will have a rich, olive-green glow and may show subtle inclusions under magnification, which are often a sign of authenticity. Fake peridots, usually made of glass or lower-cost imitations, may appear too clean or too neon in color. When in doubt, ask a certified jeweler to verify the stone.

Talk To Expert Jeweler

If you’re considering buying peridot jewelry—especially for a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary—it’s always worth speaking with a trusted jeweler. An expert can help you evaluate the color, clarity, and setting options, and make sure you’re getting a high-quality gemstone that fits your budget and style.

Learn About Other Birthstones

Each month has a fascinating birthstone (or birthstones) associated with it. Click the links below to learn more about each month.

January Birthstone | February Birthstone | March Birthstone | April Birthstone | May Birthstone | June Birthstone | July Birthstone | August Birthstone | September Birthstone | October Birthstone | November Birthstone | December Birthstone